When Merrell designed the colorful Chameleon 7 Storm XX, it went straight to the source for design inspiration. For feedback, the brand reached out to Women Who Hike, an organization that uses the outdoors as a platform to empower and motivate women. The results are pretty striking!

In return, Merrell is giving back to a similar women’s program. “When Merrell asked about a potential organization that would benefit from the Women Who Hike-inspired shoe, I immediately knew it had to be SheJumps,” said Nicole Brown, founder of Women Who Hike While.

“SheJumps is an organization that is going the extra mile to get both women and girls on the trail through educational programs such as Wild Skills and Get The Girls Out.”

Lighthearted Yet Trail-Serious Women’s Hiking Boot

The athletic Chameleon 7 Storm is touted as ultra-lightweight yet contains supportive features for tackling longer trail hikes. Merrell graded the boot for backpacking as well. A purple rubber outer wraps up a breathable mesh upper with an intentionally playful pink-and-blue color wash.

At 1 pound 10 ounces, the Chameleon 7 Storm XX is airy. Yet the brand’s FlexPlate technology delivers protection. And the Vibram sole should result in good grip.

This boot uses a Gore-Tex membrane, making it waterproof.

Proceeds Help Women Reach Their Adventure Potential

For each pair of Chameleon 7 boots sold, 10 percent of proceeds will go to SheJumps. The nonprofit is trying to increase the participation of women and girls — from first-timers to elite athletes — in outdoor activities.

SheJumps runs outdoor education programs, youth clinics, and grassroots gatherings. The group consists of women and girls from all backgrounds and ages.

At $180 (MSRP), the Chameleon is an investment boot. But at least the funds go toward a good cause. Merrell is donating up to $10,000 from sales of the Chameleon 7 Storm XX and all purchases on Merrell’s site this Sunday only.

Associate editor Julie Kailus has spent a career covering people, places, and products in the outdoor industry. Julie can be found testing the latest and greatest in her favorite activities — trail running, mountain biking, swimming, snowboarding, and the underrated endurance sport of chasing two sons around the mountains.

Video

&horbar;

×

Hiking

Day hikes to trekking for many miles down the trail, we cover a range of hiking products.